Statistics: “Consumer prices rose slightly”

WILLEMSTAD – The consumer price index (CPI) has increased in the months of April, May and June of 0.1 and 1.1 and 0.9 percent respectively. This is according to a report from the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS). Measured over the twelve months to April, May and June, prices rose respectively by 0.7, 0.6 and 0.6 percent.

Especially electricity prices fluctuated in Curacao. Rates fell by an average of 10 percent in April. In May and June, prices rose by an average of 10 percent. The price of water fluctuated. In April it was 4 percent cheaper, May 9 percent more in June 4 percent cheaper. Gasoline was in April and June respectively11 and 3 percent more expensive.

Loss of purchasing power

Inflation is a reflection of the loss of purchasing power due to the rise of consumer prices for goods and services. The inflation rate is an indication of the average increase in the cost of living. Inflation in Curacao has shown a downward trend over the past two years, according to the CBS. In the past three months it has resulted in an inflation rate lower than 1 percent.